I discovered local artist Rachel Carter when I was brunching at The Hill by Brad & Dills on Rowland Hill Street. Rachel’s framed artworks of Still Life With Flowers, bring charm and cheer, with each collage made from upcycled kimonos. They reflect the artist’s many years uniting her British background with a lived experience of Japan.
Purple Leaf Vase with Morning Glory and Bamboo Shoots
In the 80s, Rachel was based in Tokyo for three years. She was a teacher in companies where businessmen wanted to learn English. Rachel remembers how challenging it was to live in Japan at a time when there were so few foreigners there. “Sometimes my family and I felt like circus creatures,” Rachel recalls, “especially my young son with his blond curls!”
As Rachel became more familiar with Japanese life – even managing to drive around despite not being able to read Japanese – she teamed up with a local businessman and together they started a successful company exporting British products to Japan. During that 25-year career, Rachel established Neal’s Yard Remedy products in Japan, as well as an organic vegan restaurant, a school of Natural Medicine and therapy rooms.
Then came a time when Rachel discovered second-hand shops selling remnants from silk kimonos. She was accustomed to Japanese women and men wearing kimonos for everyday life or on special occasions, but through these shops she learnt more about the many and varied kimono fabric designs.
Having studied British and European history when she was an art school student, Rachel wanted to add a new perspective to the art genre of Still Life with Flowers, by working with upcycled kimono fabric.
Mountain River no.2
“Commonly there are historical scenes, flowers, tools, and traditional children’s toys printed or handsewn on the kimonos,” Rachel explains. “Some have geometric designs, but all the patterns have a meaning.” Alongside the historical and cultural significance of Japan’s traditional garment, these motifs and patterns inspire Rachel.
With patience and imagination, Carter creates impressive and attractive flower arrangements. She accurately replicates the nature revered by Japanese people – such as bamboo, blossoms, chrysanthemums, and peonies which have as much meaning as roses do for the British. And ultimately Rachel Carter shows her love for traditional Japanese design.
Cover Photo: Rachel Carter outside The Hill restaurant, Rowland Hill Street, NW3
